A woman comes in complaining of depression. She says it started when her husband left with a younger woman and she has not been “right since.” She reports having difficulty falling asleep and complains of no appetite. She says she has missed more than 3 weeks of work since he left last month. There are no children, but she tells you she has neglected the dog and cannot remember if she fed him last night or not. She appears listless and very sad, weeping off and on during the interview.

In each of the above situations, develop a tentative plan for the client. List the various services you believe each person needs initially. Include in your plan for each client both formal and generic services, and where appropriate, use social supports and support groups. Suggest other services the person might use later once the case is stabilized. Think about how you can involve others close to the person and how you will involve the client in planning.